Longing for Trang Kim Pho, a specialty in Quan Ba, Ha Giang

Made entirely by hand and air-dried, Trang Kim Pho, a specialty from Trang Kim village, Quyet Tien commune, Quan Ba district, is a must-try when visiting this highland district.

Longing for Trang Kim Pho, a specialty in Quan Ba, Ha Giang

The pho cakes are naturally air-dried. Photo: @hoangthao.144.

Originating from a quaint village nestled alongside the Mien River in Quyet Tien commune, Quan Ba district, Phở Tráng Kìm has been a culinary gem for years. This tranquil hamlet is renowned for its traditional pho, cherished for its delectable flavor and masterful preparation, which sets it apart from pho made elsewhere in the S-shaped country.

Strands of

are meticulously crafted at every stage, bearing resemblance to the process of making rolled rice pancakes. Each layer of batter is evenly spread across a stretched cloth over a pot of water, covered tightly to allow steam to cook the pancakes thoroughly. A skillful, elongated tool is then used to delicately roll the pho pancakes, which are then laid out on bamboo poles to naturally dry before being taken down and hand-cut into small pieces. This process, endearingly referred to as 'air-drying pho,' requires precision and finesse.

The rice flour used for making pho here is entirely ground from mountainous rice, free from artificial additives, resulting in a naturally soft and fragrant texture. Therefore, the strands of

boast distinctive characteristics compared to other types of pho found in different regions. The color, flavor, and chewiness of the pho strands enhance the overall dish, making it more delicious and intriguing for diners.

Free-range chicken

The exceptional flavor of a bowl of phở Tráng Kìm lies in its broth. The broth is simmered from pork marrow bones and chicken bones, infused with ginger, turmeric, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves for a fragrant aroma. The village-raised chickens, fed with corn all year round, roam the hillsides, yielding tender and succulent meat. The pho noodles are placed in a delicate ceramic bowl, topped with tender white chicken meat, golden crispy skin, a sprinkle of finely sliced spring onions, and finally drenched in the rich and hearty broth simmering on the stove.

Photo: Fb Phở Tráng Kìm Hà Giang

Phở Tráng Kìm is a familiar breakfast choice for market-goers or tourists visiting Ha Giang, on their way to explore the Dong Van rocky plateau, passing through Quyet Tien, often stopping by to enjoy this delicious pho in the highlands. The bowl of pho is visually enticing with its characteristic golden hue from turmeric, generous portions of hillside chicken, and plenty of pho noodles for a satisfying meal. Moreover, locals in the highlands have the habit of enjoying pho with rice for a hearty meal.

Phở Tráng Kìm in corn noodle version. Photo: Lao Dong Newspaper.

The bowl of pho is generously filled with fresh red chili, herbs, pickled bamboo shoots, and fragrant coriander, simple yet evoking a uniquely delightful sensation. From the ingredients, preparation method, cozy atmosphere to the warm hospitality of the highland people, everything leaves a positive impression on those who have savored it before. Thus, whenever one visits Quan Ba, Ha Giang, seeking out the renowned pho dish becomes an irresistible urge to satisfy the longing.

Arranging pho noodles. Photo: Banking Times.

Dried pho. Photo: Fb Phở Tráng Kìm Hà Giang.

Posted by: Tran Quoc Loi

Keyword: Fond memories of phở Tráng Kìm, a specialty in Quan Ba, Ha Giang